One of the oldest towns in South Africa, Simon’s Town is rich in history and boasts beautiful beaches, marine wildlife and many outdoor attractions such as whale watching. The quaint seaside town, home to South Africa’s largest naval base for more than three centuries, celebrates its maritime heritage with a festival every April. Its waterfront is dotted with great seafood restaurants and its main street is lined with antique and thrift shops.
There are many museums to visit, including the Simon’s Town Museum and the South African Naval Museum. For those interested in nature, there’s the Boulders Beach penguin colony, the Cape Point Nature Reserve, and Admiral’s Waterfall. Whether you’re looking for history or some time outdoors, there are so many different ways to spend a perfect day in Simon’s Town.
Here are 12 things to do in Simon’s Town
1. Boulders Beach Penguin Colony
First on our list of things to do in Simons Town is Boulders Beach. Boulders Penguin Colony in Simon’s Town is home to a unique and endangered land-based colony of African Penguins. The colony, one of only a few in the world, has gained notoriety and is a popular tourist destination. The Boulders section of the Table Mountain National Park (TMNP) has three beautiful beaches, one penguin viewing area, and three boardwalks.
The best spot to see the colony is the viewing area at Foxy Beach, where boardwalks take visitors to the birds. The wooden walkways are there as a safety measure to prevent contact with the endangered aquatic birds. Due to the large boulders protecting the cove from currents, wind and big waves, Boulders Beach is great for recreational use. Families can spend the whole day at this beach with the penguins, but it’s best to keep a safe distance and not try to touch or feed the birds. Their beaks are very sharp, and if they feel threatened, they won’t think twice about biting. As a local, summer in the Cape is not complete without a trip to Boulders Beach and a rendezvous with the penguins, and as a tourist, this experience should be top on your list of things to do in Simon’s Town.
Opening Times: Weekly from 8am to 5pm
Location: 4 Boulders Place, Secluse Ave, Simon’s Town, Cape Town
Contact: 021 786 2329
Also read: A walking tour to teach you the story behind Simon’s Town
2. Jubilee Square & Jetty
Simon’s Town is a naval town, and the prime site to explore the culture of the area is at Jubilee Square & Jetty. As the town’s focal point, Jubilee Square has been a popular gathering place for locals since the 1880s. Whether you are on your way to the penguin colony near Boulders Beach or just looking for things to do in Simon’s Town, Jubilee Square & Jetty is worth the stop. Take a stroll around the plaza to peruse the unique crafts on sale, indulge in some local seafood at one of the adjacent restaurants, or explore the antique shops that line the nearby main street.
In addition, Jubilee Square is the site of numerous regional celebrations and events, such as the well-known lively market, a collection of vintage cars, and the Great Dane Parade honouring the town’s mascot, Just Nuisance.
Opening Times: Open 24 hours
Location: St George’s St, Simon’s Town, Cape Town
Contact: 021 786 4737
3. Simon’s Town Museum
Situated just outside Cape Town, Simon’s Town is a historic naval town with a rich cultural heritage. The “Residency,” constructed in 1777 as the Cape’s winter residence for the Governor of the Dutch East India Company, is now home to the Simon’s Town Museum. The Simon’s Town Historical Society founded the Simon’s Town Museum in 1977. It was first housed in the old Simon’s Town Municipality complex before being relocated to “The Residency” in 1982.
Over the years, the structure has served as a hospital, post office, school, customs house, police station, jail and magistrate’s court. The Simon’s Town Museum collects and displays the cultural history of Simon’s Town and its connections with the Dutch East India Company and the Royal Navy. Visitors can explore the Museum’s exhibitions and learn about the town’s fascinating history. The area is also home to several military bases and museums, making it a popular tourist destination for history buffs looking for things to do in Simon’s Town.
Opening Times: Monday to Thursday, 10am to 3pm
Location: Court Rd, Simon’s Town, Cape Town
Contact: 021 786 3046
4. Admiral’s Waterfall
Among the variety of things to do in Simon’s Town, is a to visit the Admiral’s Waterfall. The waterfall is hidden away at the top of a ravine, and to get there you have to walk up a slight incline that begins at the end of Barnard Street. As you round a sharp bend, the sight of the deep ravine will immediately grab your attention. Up top is where you’ll find the hidden pool and waterfall. It’s a great spot for a picnic, and you’ll be able to take in the breathtaking views of Simon’s Town harbour while you’re there.
Location: 37 Barnard St, Mount Pleasant, Cape Town
5. South African Naval Museum
Located on the southern tip of the Cape Peninsula, Simon’s Town is a popular tourist destination in South Africa. The South African Naval Museum is one example. The museum commemorates the navy’s past and provides context for Simon’s Town’s role as South Africa’s primary naval port. Views into modern naval operations are provided through a life-size replica of a submarine’s control room as well as naval artillery and torpedoes. Tales of daring deeds on the high seas are another way in which the guides keep the passengers entertained.
The South African Naval Museum remains one of the most popular things to do in Simon’s Town but unfortunately, it’s not accessible to all visitors. There are some sections outside and at higher levels where access may be difficult for the elderly or those with disabilities—like the Middle North Battery.
Opening Times: Weekly, 9.30am to 3.30pm
Location: St George’s St, Simon’s Town, Cape Town
Contact: 021 787 4686
7. Able Seaman Just Nuisance
Just Nuisance, a Great Dane, is the only canine that has been recognised as an official member of the Royal Navy. During World War II, he served with HMS Afrikander, a Royal Navy naval base in Simon’s Town, South Africa, between 1939 and 1944.
His owner, Benjamin Chaney, who ran the United Service Institute, a popular hangout for sailors from the Royal Navy, brought him to Simon’s Town as a puppy in 1939.
He soon became a familiar figure around town, taken for walks and treated to pies, biscuits, and even beer by the sailors, to whom he became a kind of mascot. So naturally, the dog grew fond of sailors and followed them everywhere, including the naval base, dockyards and even onto the ships. He wasn’t a small dog—he was large even for a Great Dane—so when he started lounging around at the top of the gangplank, he blocked the way, earning him the nickname “Nuisance”.
Location: 113 St George’s St, Simon’s Town, Cape Town
7. Scratch Patch Mineral World and Cave Golf
The Scratch Patch is a hands-on museum where visitors can learn about the rocks and minerals that make up the earth’s crust. Cave Golf is an 18-hole miniature golf course that is set inside a real cave. Both attractions are located inside Simons Town’s historic military fort. Visitors can also explore the fort’s tunnels and gun batteries, which date back to the 19th century. Both Scratch Patch and Cave Golf are great ways to learn about the local geology, and they make for an enjoyable day out. Add this to your list of things to do in Simon’s Town with your kids.
Location: Dido Valley Rd, Simon’s Town, Cape Town
Contact: 021 786 2020
Also read: Scratch Patch Mineral World and cave golf
8. Simon’s Town Ghost Walk Tour
Local tour guide Andre Leibbrandt came up with the idea for a ghost walk through Simon’s Town six years ago to generate extra revenue. Leibbrandt poured over old books and maps, spending countless hours learning about the town’s spooky history in preparation for the tour.
The ghost walk takes place at night and covers approximately 2 kilometres. Some of the stops along the way include the Lavender Lady, shocking exhumations, creepy hotel shenanigans, and graveyard figures. Guests are encouraged to bring along a camera and an open mind. The Simon’s Town ghost walk has something for everyone, whether you’re a sceptic or a true believer in ghosts.
Location: Jubilee St, Simon’s Town, Cape Town
Contact: 0761904081
9. Simon’s Town Warrior Toy Museum and Shop
The Toy Museum in Simon’s Town is a fantastic place to take the kids or to enjoy a trip down memory lane if you’re an adult. With over 4000 different car models on display, each with its own story to tell, the museum is like taking a journey through time. The sales section is also excellent for those who want a bargain, with prices much lower than you would find in the shops.
In addition, the two railroads and other play items are fully operational, so you can relive your childhood while your children enjoy theirs. So whether you’re looking for things to do in Simon’s Town on a rainy day or you’re just a die-hard collector, the Toy Museum should definitely be on your list of places to visit.
Opening Times: Monday to Friday, 10am to 2pm | Saturday to Sunday, 10am to 4pm
Location: 1067 King George Way, Simon’s Town, Cape Town
Also read: South Africa’s ‘Penguin Town’ scoops up three Daytime Emmy Awards!
10. Rocklands Centre Campground
Located between Simon’s Town and Cape Point National Park, on a mountainside with a breathtaking view of False Bay, is the Rocklands Centre. It has a long and storied history, with the first official camp taking place in 1988.
Location: 77 Rocklands Rd, Murdock Valley, Cape Town, 7975
Contact: 021 786 2501
11. Seaforth Restaurant
The Seaforth Restaurant at Simon’s Town is located right on Seaforth Beach, near the Boulders Beach penguin colony. The new structure, which stands on the site of the original Seaforth Tea Room and Restaurant, both of which burned down in 1996, offers breathtaking views of the ocean and nearby mountains.
Its prime waterfront location was taken full advantage of during the restaurant’s construction, guaranteeing that diners would have a picture-perfect meal. Guests can enjoy their dinner or a famous sundowner cocktail on the restaurant’s deck, perched just a few feet above the water at high tide.
Opening Times: Weekly from 12pm to 4pm
Location: Beach, Seaforth Rd, Simon’s Town
Contact: 0217864810
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Picture: @simonstownquaysidel / Instagram
